African American History in New Mexico: Portraits from Five Hundred Years

Preface

vii this book germinated from a series of conversations between myself and the editor-in-chief at the University of New Mexico Press, W. Clark Whitehorn. We both agreed that an anthology on the history of African Americans in New Mexico was long overdue and would be a key contribution to New Mexico history. After considerable research and further discussion, we reached two conclusions: first, that the project would fill a gap and should move forward, and second, that the number of published, scholarly articles on the topic of black New Mexico was limited. Therefore we turned to book excerpts and to asking a few authors to prepare original articles for the book. That process resulted in African American History in New Mexico. The introduction, “Under the Radar: Blacks in New Mexico History ,” provides an overview of black history and experiences in New Mexico, both chronologically and thematically, while also summarizing the selections that are included in the book. The remainder of African American History in New Mexico consists of seventeen articles on key topics of the black experience in the state. The selections cover critical aspects of those experiences—employment opportunities , cultural contributions, black women, black soldiers, prejudice and discrimination, violence, and the creation of communities, both rural and urban. A bibliography that I prepared principally consists Preface viii preface of secondary studies—articles, books, dissertations, theses—of black experiences, contributions, and roles in the Land of Enchantment. The book is intended to appeal to a broad range of readers—students , teachers, scholars, and the general reading public. The essays represent a combination of themes and topics. They are readable, enjoyable, and packed with information. The anthology highlights and showcases the resiliency and spirit of New Mexico blacks and their communities. I received considerable help in preparing and publishing this book. For that assistance I wish to thank a number of people. Without the scholarship and ability of the contributing authors, of course, the book would not have been feasible. The original publishers, too, must be thanked for allowing me to use their articles in this publication. Two New Mexico colleagues served as readers for the book; their effort and suggestions were followed and made it a much better collection. Thanks. W. Clark Whitehorn of the University of New Mexico Press continually provided encouragement. While conducting research at the University of New Mexico, I stayed with my nephew, D. Scott Glasrud, who agreed to write one of the chapters. His family made life enjoyable for me; and his two daughters helped me in conducting the research—thanks Amber and Ashley. Scott’s son Cameron was a delight and let me beat him in basketball. I would be remiss if I did not thank George M. Cooper for writing the chapter on the modern civil rights movement. As usual, Pearlene Vestal Glasrud read and re-read the manuscript and suggested significant improvements. For the rest I remain responsible. Bruce A. Glasrud San Antonio, Texas ...